Kansas Senior Press Service Weekly Newsletters Kansas Senior Press Service Weekly Newsletters By: Kansas Senior Press Service
AARP's Internet Resources on Aging is a database of more than 900 internet resources for people age 50+. The web sites are chosen for their usefulness for older adults and their families, as well as for researchers, students, and professionals in the field of aging. Sites are listed by categories such as:
Most of the sites are produced by government agencies or nonprofit organizations. Commercial sites are not included unless they contain a substantial amount of free information that is interesting to a wide spectrum of older adults. AARP reviews entries every 6 months, updating their descriptions and web addresses as needed.
AARP does not recommend or endorse any of the listed web sites, and limits the number of listed sites in order to keep their database current and accurate. Individuals or organizations may contact AARP to recommend a site.
Excerpted and condensed from www.aarp.org/internetresources where you can see the entire list of websites.
By: Kansas Senior Press Service
Following the death of a spouse or partner, many older people feel that their entire world has changed. They may struggle with feelings of shock, sorrow, anger, fear, and occasionally guilt. Grief can make everyday activities like sleeping and eating difficult.
To help older people cope with grief, the National Institute on Aging, part of the National Institutes of Health, has added “Mourning the Death of a Spouse” to its “Age Page” series of easy-to-read brochures on health topics and related concerns.
When a spouse or partner dies, the survivor may feel emotional and physical pain. In many cases, he or she does not know where to turn for help. This new publication provides useful, practical advice on topics such as reacting to death and taking charge of life again. The brochure covers many facets of mourning and learning to live without a partner. If newly widowed, you can learn about:
For a free copy of this brochure and other useful health information, call 800-222-2225 or visit www.nia.nih.gov.
Source: The National Institute on Aging
By:
Kansas Senior Press Service
A retired Kansas resident recently suggested that an article be written about a problem she experienced with a home improvement purchase. The senior had recently purchased gutter covers for her house and felt that she had done the right thing, as neither she nor her husband are able to climb a ladder. However, once installed, the gutter covers didn’t quite live up to expectation, and in fact ladder climbing may still be necessary.
The caller explained that she was overwhelmed by the sales person’s “pitch” and cautioned that “Seniors need to be aware when salesmen talk so fast.” Although the issue may be that these specific gutter covers are inferior, the larger issue is being rushed into making such a major purchase.
Caveat emptor (Latin for “Let the buyer beware”) really does apply when you are contemplating a purchase, especially a major one. So take your time in making decisions regarding home improvements or modifications such as having your house painted or a new roof or siding installed. Consider these tips to slow down the sale and help you make a good decision:
Home improvements can cost thousands of dollars and are the subject of frequent complaints to the Office of Consumer Protection in Topeka. Kansas Attorney General Paul Morrison recommends that all homeowners do their homework before signing contracts or paying for home improvements. Take time to protect yourself from unscrupulous contractors who might seek to take advantage of you.
For consumer protection information or to report a concern you may contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Hotline at 1-800-432-2310.
These articles are also available electronically at the Center on Aging Website: http://www2.kumc.edu/coa/Senior_Press_Article/Topic_Index.htm